Although there's something undeniably special about revving the engine of a brand-new car for the first time, buying a new car in Toronto isn't always feasible.
New cars in Toronto can be pretty expensive (the price averages out to approximately $40,000). The high price point (along with the other expenses associated with living in Toronto) has led to an increase in used car purchases.
Have you considered purchasing a used vehicle in Toronto? If so, you're likely wondering — what's the best place to buy used cars Toronto has to offer?".
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Continue reading to learn more about the best place to buy a used car in Toronto.
What is the best place to buy used cars in the GTA?
There is no single best place to buy used cars in Toronto — each option comes with its own sets of pros and cons.
Ultimately, the place that you decide to purchase a used car from will depend on your personal preferences, location and more.
That being said, we can provide you with a thorough list of practical places to look for a used car in Toronto, along with some of the positive and negative aspects of each option.
Consider going to the best used car dealerships Toronto has to offer
If you're looking for the best car dealerships Toronto has no shortage of options.
There are several reputable used car dealerships in the GTA, which makes it easy for drivers, like you, to find a dealership nearby.
Here are some of the positive characteristics of shopping at the best used car dealerships in GTA:
- More wiggle room to negotiate the price
- Warranty coverage is generally available
- In-house financing options for the buyer
- The dealership needs to inform the buyer about the vehicle's accident history (if applicable)
Here are some of the negative aspects of buying a used car at a dealership in Toronto:
- Popular and luxury models can be expensive, even if they are used
- The buyer may have to deal with high-pressure sales tactics from the dealership representative
- Vehicle quality can range
Try out an online used car dealership
The internet makes buying practically anything easier, even used cars in Toronto. If you don't have the time to compare used cars at an in-person dealership, an online dealership might be the ideal option for you.
Shopping for a used car at an online dealership allows you to find the perfect ride from the comfort of your own home.
Some of the various benefits of buying a used car from an online dealership include:
- Warranty coverage is sometimes offered
- You can choose from an extensive selection of old and new models
- The vehicle is delivered to your door
Some of the negative aspects of buying a used car from an online dealership include:
- One of the most expensive options
- The buyer isn't able to test drive the vehicle
- Delivery fees often apply
Buy a used car from a private seller in Toronto
If going to an in-person or online dealership isn't your thing, that's ok! There are other ways to find a used car in Toronto, like searching for a private seller.
There are several ways to track down used cars from private sellers; some of the most common approaches include searching through online platforms and going through newspaper ads.
You can also ask your friends, family members and co-workers if they know anyone who is selling their car.
Lastly, while walking or driving around the GTA, you can keep an eye out for vehicles that have a "for sale" sign in their window.
Some of the pros of buying a car from a private seller in Toronto include:
- Generally cheaper than in-person and online dealerships
- Lots of room to negotiate the price of the used vehicle
- The buyer can test drive the vehicle before making a decision
- A large, ever-changing selection of used vehicles to choose from
Some of the most noteworthy cons of buying a used car from a private seller in Toronto include:
- Very competitive (especially in the outskirts of the GTA where driving is more common)
- Quality ranges from vehicle to vehicle
- The seller may not be aware of hard-to-spot issues with the vehicle
- May have to travel out of the GTA to pick up the vehicle
Get a bargain at a used car auction
Going once, going twice…Sold!
Used car auctions are a fantastic option for drivers that want to get a great deal on a vehicle in the GTA.
Many auction houses offer a wide variety of models, ranging from ex-law enforcement vehicles to old rental cars. Drivers can bid on one of their dream cars and (if there's little competition) potentially get it for a very competitive price.
Some of the positive aspects of buying a used car at an auction include:
- Potential for great prices
- Wide variety of unique cars
- An easy and fun way to buy a used vehicle
Some of the cons of buying a used car at an auction include:
- The buyer cannot return the used vehicle after it's been purchased
- No test drives
- The price can get hiked up by other bidders
Do drivers need to get car insurance for a used car in Toronto?
Yes, all cars (regardless of whether they are brand-new or over a decade old) need to have the provincial minimum of third-party liability car insurance.
Drivers that are caught operating a vehicle without valid auto insurance can face serious consequences, including fines (ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 depending on the number of offences) and losing their driving privileges.
If you're looking for car insurance in Toronto, you've come to the right place!
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